As you stood with your friends, you swiped a layer of lip oil across your lips, the glossy sheen catching the light. Pulling the piece of gum from your mouth, you tossed it into the nearest bin before letting your gaze wander around the room.

That’s when you saw him.

Landon.

He was with his usual group of friends, but the moment your eyes met, everything else faded. Neither of you looked away. The air between you thickened, unspoken words passing in the space that separated you.

Your friends, noticing the silent exchange, nudged you playfully, giggling as they whispered amongst themselves. You barely registered their teasing, too caught up in the way Landon was watching you—like he had just made up his mind about something.

Then, without warning, he started walking toward you.

With his blazer draped over one shoulder, he moved with effortless confidence, closing the distance between you in mere seconds. When he reached you, he towered over you, casting a shadow that made you tilt your chin up to meet his gaze. The soft glow of amusement danced in his eyes, and when he smiled, that damn dimple appeared—enough to send your heart into a frenzy.

Before you could process what was happening, Landon leaned in, his lips pressing against yours in a kiss that stole the breath from your lungs. His blazer slipped from his fingers, forgotten as his hands found your waist, pulling you closer.

A soft laugh bubbled from your lips as you pulled away, a warmth spreading through you. Landon looked down at you, slightly dazed, his lips now glistening with the faint sheen of your lip oil.

He had no idea.

And you weren’t about to tell him.